Power management for door system with high and low voltage electrical power supplies for integrated electric devices and methods of operation

ABSTRACT

A door system comprises a door frame adapted to be mounted within an opening, a door pivotally attached to the door frame, an AC/DC converter operably associated with the door frame, a DC electric device mounted to the door, at least one sensor mounted to the door frame or the door, and a power management controller configured to receive an input from the at least one sensor and send a command to the DC electric device. The AC/DC converter is configured to be electrically connected to an AC power unit disposed outside the door system. The DC electric device is electrically connected to the AC/DC converter.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION AND CLAIM TO PRIORITY

This Application is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No.17/142,759 filed Jan. 6, 2021 which claims the benefit of U.S.Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 62/957,415 filed Jan. 6, 2020,Ser. No. 63/064,053 filed Aug. 11, 2020 and Ser. No. 63/087,526 filedOct. 5, 2020, all by Sorice et al., which are each hereby incorporatedherein by reference in its entirety and to which priority is claimed.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention

The present invention is directed to exterior or interior doors forresidential or commercial buildings, such as for a home, apartment,condominium, hotel room or business, and more particularly to a doorsystem having sources of low- and/or high-voltage electrical power and apower management system provided to operate electric devices mounted toor adjacent a door assembly. The invention also includes methods ofoperating the doors.

2. Description of the Related Art

Typical existing exterior or interior doors for residential orcommercial buildings may have a number of electric devices (orcomponents) mounted to the doors in order to provide desired functions,such as electronic access control, door state feedback, an entry cameraand audio communication, an electric powered door latch, an electricpowered door lock, etc. Also, the market for exterior and interior doorshas seen an increasing adoption of additional electric devices includingvideo doorbells, smart locks, LED lighting, smart glass,electromechanical door closers, wireless connectivity electronics, etc.Each of these discrete electric devices is an add-on to an existingdoor, functions with the existing door construction, and is poweredseparately with at least one battery that requires periodic replacement.Should the battery not be replaced, then the electric device will notoperate.

Current electric devices are mounted to exterior or interior doors in amanner that can be unattractive and unpleasant to look at. The electricdevices typically each have either one or more rechargeable batterypacks or at least one non-rechargeable battery that must periodically berecharged or changed and have some type of weatherable housing that maynot match the appearance of the door.

While the commercial market, e.g., multi-tenant and mixed-use housing,hospitality, office, etc., has developed electrified door entry systemswith electric strikes and door controller technologies, the adoptioninto the residential market has been limited. Existing residential doorconstruction techniques focus on stile and rail construction, and havenot seen integration of power systems or integration of electric deviceswith an internal controller.

Therefore, the need exists for a door system and method designed forintegration of electric devices into the door system, with power run tothe door so electric devices and that power managed by a control systemso that the devices may be easily integrated into and powered from acentral power supply without adversely impacting structural integrity,insulation and/or acoustic performance, energy efficiency, andaesthetics of the door system. Thus, improvements that may enhanceperformance and cost of door systems with electric devices are possible.

BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

According to a first aspect of the present invention, there is provideda door system. The door system comprises a door frame adapted to bemounted within an opening, a door pivotally attached to the door frame,a power converter such as an AC/DC converter operably associated withthe door frame, a DC electric device mounted to the door, at least onesensor mounted to the door frame or the door, and a power managementcontroller configured to receive an input from the at least one sensorand send a command to the DC electric device. The AC/DC converter isconfigured to be electrically connected to an AC power unit disposedoutside the door system. The DC electric device is electricallyconnected to the AC/DC converter and to the power management controller.

According to a second aspect of the present invention, there is provideda door assembly. The door assembly comprises a door frame adapted to bemounted within an opening, a door pivotally attached to the door frame,a power converter such as an AC/DC converter mounted to or adjacent thedoor frame and configured to be electrically connected to an AC powerunit, a DC power distribution system mounted to the door or door frameand electrically connected to the AC/DC converter, a plurality of DCelectric devices mounted to the door or door frame and electricallyconnected to the AC/DC converter through the DC power distributionsystem, and a power management controller electrically connected to theAC/DC converter and operably associated with the DC electric devices andconfigured for controlling operation thereof.

According to a third aspect of the present invention, there is providedan entryway. The entryway comprises a door frame mounted within anopening, a door pivotally attached to the door frame, an AC power supplyoperably associated with the door frame, a power converter such as anAC/DC converter operably associated with the door frame and electricallyconnected to an AC power unit operably associated with the door, a DCpower distribution system mounted to the door or door frame andelectrically connected to the AC/DC converter, a plurality of sensorsoperably associated with the entryway, a plurality of DC electricdevices mounted to the door or door frame and electrically connected tothe DC power distribution system, and a power management controllerelectrically connected to the AC/DC converter and operably associatedwith the DC electric devices and with the sensors and configured forcontrolling at least one of the DC electric devices in response to thesensors.

According to a further aspect of the invention, a method of operating anentryway, the method comprises the steps of providing a door framewithin an opening. The door has an electric powered operating mechanismpivotally mounted to the door frame. A source of AC power is positionedproximate the door frame. AC power is converted such as by generating DCpower by rectifying and reducing the voltage of the AC power, andsupplying low-voltage DC power to the door. At least one DC electricdevice is positioned on the door. A power management controller iselectrically connected to the AC/DC converter and operably associatedwith the DC electric devices and with the sensors for controlling supplyof power thereto, for receiving data therefrom, and for transmittingoperating signals thereto. The DC electric devices are controlled by thepower management controller in response to the sensors. The DC electricdevices are operated by the power management controller.

Other aspects of the invention, including apparatus, devices, methods,and the like which constitute parts of the invention, will become moreapparent upon reading the following detailed description of theexemplary embodiments.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The accompanying drawings are incorporated in and constitute a part ofthe specification. The drawings, together with the general descriptiongiven above and the detailed description of the exemplary embodimentsand methods given below, serve to explain the principles of theinvention. In such drawings:

FIG. 1 is an elevational exterior view of an exterior door systemaccording to a first exemplary embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 2 is an elevational interior view of the door system according tothe first exemplary embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 3 is an elevational view of the door system according to the firstexemplary embodiment of the present invention without an exterior doorskin in order to allow observation of the interior of the door;

FIG. 4 is an elevational interior view of a door system according to asecond exemplary embodiment of the present invention door system;

FIG. 5 is an elevational interior view of a door system according to athird exemplary embodiment of the present invention without an exteriordoor skin;

FIG. 6 is an elevational interior view of a door system according to afourth exemplary embodiment of the present invention without an exteriordoor skin;

FIG. 7 is an elevational exterior view of an exterior door systemaccording to a fifth exemplary embodiment of the present invention; and

FIG. 8 is a perspective view of the exterior door system according tothe fifth exemplary embodiment of the present invention with an opendoor.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EXEMPLARY EMBODIMENTS

Reference will now be made in detail to the exemplary embodiments andexemplary methods as illustrated in the accompanying drawings, in whichlike reference characters designate like or corresponding partsthroughout the drawings. It should be noted, however, that the inventionin its broader aspects is not necessarily limited to the specificdetails, representative materials and methods, and illustrative examplesshown and described in connection with the exemplary embodiments andexemplary methods.

This description of exemplary embodiments is intended to be read inconnection with the accompanying drawings, which are to be consideredpart of the entire written description.

In the description, relative terms such as “horizontal,” “vertical,”“front,” “rear,” “upper”, “lower”, “top” and “bottom” as well asderivatives thereof (e.g., “horizontally,” “downwardly,” “upwardly,”etc.) should be construed to refer to the orientation as then describedor as shown in the drawing figure under discussion and to theorientation relative to a vehicle body. These relative terms are forconvenience of description and normally are not intended to require aparticular orientation. Terms concerning attachments, coupling and thelike, such as “connected” and “interconnected,” refer to a relationshipwherein structures are secured or attached to one another eitherdirectly or indirectly through intervening structures, as well as bothmovable or rigid attachments or relationships, unless expresslydescribed otherwise. The term “operatively connected” is such anattachment, coupling or connection that allows the pertinent structuresto operate as intended by virtue of that relationship. The term“integral” (or “unitary”) relates to a part made as a single part, or apart made of separate components fixedly (i.e., non-moveably) connectedtogether. Additionally, the word “a” and “an” as used in the claimsmeans “at least one” and the word “two” as used in the claims means “atleast two”.

FIGS. 1 and 2 depict a door system 10 according to a first exemplaryembodiment of the present invention, such as a pre-hung door. The doorsystem 10 includes a conventional hinged residential exterior doorassembly 11, but it should be understood that the door assembly 11 maybe an exterior or interior door assembly having a pivotal door providedfor a residential or commercial building, such as a home, apartment,garage, condominium, hotel, office building, or the like. The doorassembly 11 may be made of any appropriate material, such as wood,metal, wood composite material, fiberglass reinforced polymer compositeor the like. The door assembly 11 includes a substantially rectangulardoor frame 12 and a door 14 pivotally attached thereto by at least onehinge 161, such as a “butt hinge” that includes two leaves.

The door frame 12 includes first and second parallel, spaced apartvertically extending jamb members 12 ₁, 12 ₂ and a horizontallyextending upper jamb rail member or header 12 c that connects upper endsof the first and second jamb members 12 ₁, 12 ₂. Those skilled in theart recognize that lower ends of the jamb members 12 ₁, 12 ₂ may beinterconnected through a threshold 12 t.

The at least one hinge 16 ₁ pivotally attaches the door 14 to the firstjamb member 12 i. Typically, at least two hinges 16 ₁ and 16 ₂ areprovided to secure the door 14 to the first jamb member 12 i.Preferably, as best shown in FIG. 2 , three hinges 16 ₁, 16 ₂ and 16 ₃are used to secure the door 14 to the door frame 12. In the interest ofsimplicity, the following discussion will sometimes use referencenumeral 16 without a subscript numeral to designate an entire group ofhinges. For example, the reference numeral 16 will be sometimes usedwhen generically referring to the hinges 16 ₁, 16 ₂ and 16 ₃.

The door 14 includes a rectangular inner door frame 20, an exterior doorskin (or facing) 23, and an interior door skin (or facing) 24 secured toopposite sides of the inner door frame 20, as best shown in FIGS. 1-3 .The exterior and interior door skins 23 and 24 are formed separatelyfrom one another. The door skins 23 and 24 are secured, e.g., typicallyadhesively, to a suitable core and/or to opposite sides of the innerdoor frame 20 so that the inner door frame 20 is sandwiched between theexterior and interior door skins 23 and 24. Typically, the exterior andinterior door skins 23 and 24 are identical in appearance and are madeof a polymer-based composite, such as sheet molding compound (“SMC”) ormedium-density fiberboard (MDF), other wood composite materials,fiber-reinforced polymer, such as fiberglass, hardboard, fiberboard,steel, and other thermoplastic materials. The door 14 has a hinge side14H mounted to the inner door frame 20 by the hinges 16, and ahorizontally opposite latch side 14L.

The inner door frame 20 includes a pair of parallel, spaced aparthorizontally extending top and bottom rails 21 ₁ and 21 ₂, respectively,and a pair of parallel, spaced apart vertically extending first andsecond stiles 22 ₁ and 22 ₂, respectively, typically manufactured fromwood or an engineered wood, such as a laminated veneer lumber (LVL). Thetop and bottom rails 21 i and 21 ₂ horizontally extend between the firstand second stiles 22 ₁ and 22 ₂. Moreover, the top and bottom rails 21 ₁and 21 ₂ may be fixedly secured to the first and second stiles 22 ₁ and22 ₂, such as through adhesive or mechanical fasteners. The inner doorframe 20 further may include a mid-rail extending horizontally andspaced apart from the top and bottom rails 21 ₁ and 21 ₂, respectively,and is typically also manufactured from wood or an engineered wood, suchas a laminated veneer lumber (LVL). Moreover, the mid-rail may befixedly secured to the first and second stiles 22 ₁ and 22 ₂. The hinges16 are secured to the first stile 22 ₁, which defines a hinge stile ofthe inner door frame 20.

The inner door frame 20 and the exterior and interior door skins 23, 24of a typical door surround an interior cavity, which may be hollow ormay be filled with, for example, corrugated pads, foam insulation, orother core materials, if desired. Thus, the door 14 may include a core15 disposed within the inner door frame 20 between the exterior andinterior door skins 23 and 24. The core 15 may be formed from foaminsulation, such as polyurethane foam material, cellulosic material andbinder resin, corrugated pads, etc. The core 15 enhances thermalresistance and noise attenuation, among other attributes.

The door system 10 comprises a number of DC (i.e., direct current)electric 16 ₁, 16 ₂ and 16 ₃ components (devices) mounted to the door 14or adjacent the door 14 of the door system 10 to provide functions, suchas electronic access control, door state feedback, entry camera andaudio/video communication, etc. Specifically, the electric devices thatmay be mounted to the door 14 of the door system 10 include, but are notlimited to, an electric powered door latch 30, an electric powered doorlock 34, a video doorbell 36 ₁, a digital camera 36 ₂, a threshold LEDlight 36 ₃ and a hallway illumination light with a motion detector (ormotion sensor) 36 ₄. Specifically, the electric powered door latch 30and the electric powered door lock 34 are mounted to the inner doorframe 20 of the door 14, while the video doorbell 36 ₁, the digitalcamera 36 ₁ and the threshold LED light 36 ₃ may be mounted to the doorframe 12 or to the door 14 of the door system 10, as best illustrated inFIG. 3 . Alternatively, the video doorbell 36 ₁, the digital camera 36₂, the threshold LED light 36 ₃ or the hallway illumination light w36 ₄may be mounted to the door frame 12 or even adjacent to the frame 12 ona wall of the building. The threshold LED light 36 ₃ and/or the hallwayillumination light 36 ₄ may illuminate when an authorized person isrecognized or when a person approaches the door 14. Further, while weillustrate a single LED, the door system may include multiple LEDs, suchas to illuminate the door system 10, to illuminate the electric poweredlock, and to illuminate the door handle. Thus, three or more LEDs may beprovided on or adjacent the door 14.

The DC electric devices 36 ₁-36 ₄ typically are low-voltage DC electricdevices operated by low-voltage DC electrical power. Low voltage directcurrent (DC) is known in the art as 50 volts (V) or less. Common lowvoltages are 5 V, 12 V, 24 V, and 48 V. Many DC electric devices operateat 5 volts DC. Low voltage is normally used for doorbells, videodoorbells, garage door opener controls, heating and cooling thermostats,alarm system sensors and controls, outdoor ground lighting, householdand automobile batteries. Low voltage (when the source is operatingproperly) will not provide a shock from contact. However, a highcurrent, low voltage short circuit (automobile battery) can cause an arcflash and possible burns. It should be understood that the door system10 according to the present invention may include other electricdevices, as there are a number of electric devices marketed to bemounted to doors and provide functions such as electronic accesscontrol, door state feedback, entry camera and communication, etc. Inthe interest of simplicity, the following discussion will sometimes usea reference numeral without a subscript numeral to designate an entiregroup of the electric devices. For example, the reference numeral 36will be sometimes used when generically referring to the electricdevices 36 ₁-36 ₄.

As best illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 2 , the electric powered door latch30 includes a powered central latch bolt 33 moveable between extendedand retracted positions. As best illustrated in FIGS. 1-3 , the electricpowered door latch 30 is mounted to the latch side 14L of the door 14.Specifically, the electric powered door latch 30 is mounted to thesecond stile 22 ₂, which defines a latch stile of the door frame 20. Theelectric powered door latch 30 may have a lighted door knob 32 and alighted keyhole, which is illuminated when an authorized person isrecognized or when a user approaches. The handle 32 is manually operableby a user to retract the central latch bolt 33 to allow opening of thedoor 14 from a closed position to an open position.

As further illustrated in FIG. 3 , the electric powered door lock 34 isa deadbolt device, although other locking systems may be utilized. Theelectric door lock 34 includes a locking element in the form of adeadbolt operable between an extended or locked position, which preventsopening of the door 14, and a retracted or unlocked position, whichallows opening of the door 14. As best illustrated in FIGS. 1-3 , theelectric powered door latch 30 and the electric powered door lock 34 aremounted to the latch side 14L of the door 14. Specifically, the electricpowered door latch 30 and the electric powered door lock 34 are mountedto the second stile 22 ₂, which defines a latch stile of the inner doorframe 20.

Moreover, the door system 10 further includes an electric door operator(powered door closer) 52 associated with the frame assembly 12 andoperably connected to the door 14. According to the first exemplaryembodiment, the powered door closer 52 is mounted to the frame assembly12. The door closer 52 has an articulating arm which has one endconnected to a motor-carrying body attached to the header 21 ₁ andanother end engaged with door 14, so that operation of the motor of themotor-carrying body causes the arm to articulate and pivot the door 14to the closed position. The electric powered door latch 30 and theelectric powered door lock 34 are operated at low-voltage DC electricalpower, while the electric door operator 52 is typically operated by ACelectrical power, such as of 120 volts AC.

As illustrated in FIG. 3 , the door system 10 further comprises an ACdistribution unit 46 and a power converter, such as a low-voltage (suchas 5 volts (V), 12 volts, 24 volts or other required voltage) AC to DC(AC/DC) converter 40, both mounted to the door frame 12. As bestillustrated in FIG. 3 , the low voltage AC/DC converter 40 is located ina pocket machined or otherwise formed into the first jamb member 12 ₁ ofthe door frame 12, which is adjacent to the hinges 16 and the firststile of the door frame 20, i.e., adjacent to the hinge side 14H of thedoor 14. While we illustrate the AC/DC converter 40 located on the hingejamb 12 ₁, it may be located elsewhere on frame 12 or adjacent frame 12.The low voltage AC/DC converter 40 is electrically connected by highvoltage wires 43 to a 120 (or 110) V AC power unit 42 installed duringhome construction or located adjacent the door assembly 11. The AC/DCconverter 40 can be located at a standardized height on the first jambmember 12 ₁ of the door frame 12 so that the AC power unit 42 may beinstalled during home construction. Due to their close proximity, theAC/DC converter 40 and AC power unit 42 may be easily electricallyconnected. Alternatively, the low voltage AC/DC converter 40 may bedisposed outside the door assembly 11, such as at the wall adjacent thedoor frame 12. The AC power unit 42 defines a source of high voltage(i.e., 120 (or 110) volts of a standard general-purposealternating-current (AC) electrical power supply or a high voltageelectrical power supply) disposed outside but adjacent the door system10. Typically, the standard 120 (or 110) volts general-purpose ACelectrical power supply is known in the USA as grid power, wall power,or domestic power. Other voltages, such as 220 volts, may be used. Thelow voltage AC/DC converter 40 after connection to AC power unit 42converts the standard general-purpose alternating-current (AC) highvoltage of 120 V to the low voltage of 5 volts DC, 12 volts DC, 24 voltsDC, or other required voltage. Many electric devices operate at 5 voltsDC or 12 volts DC, so the AC/DC converter 40 steps down the power andcurrent type to allow typical 120 (or 115) volts general-purpose ACelectrical power to be available for use at the door system 10.

The AC distribution unit 46 preferably is located in a pocket (or slot)47 machined or otherwise formed into the first jamb member 12 ₁ of thedoor frame 12, which is adjacent to the hinges 16 and the first stile ofthe door frame 20, i.e., adjacent to the hinge side 14H of the doorpanel 14. Alternatively, the AC distribution unit 46 may be located in apocket (or slot) machined or otherwise formed into the upper jamb railmember header 12 c of the frame assembly 12. Yet further, the ACdistribution unit 46 may be disposed outside the door assembly 11, suchas at the wall adjacent the frame 12. The AC distribution unit 46 iselectrically connected to the 120 (or 115) V AC power unit 42 installedduring home construction and located adjacent the door system 10. The ACdistribution unit 46 also is electrically coupled to the low voltage ACto DC (AC/DC) converter 40. In this way, the 120 V AC power isdistributed by the AC distribution unit 46 to the low voltage AC/DCconverter 40 mounted in the door frame 12, and to at least one otherelectric device mounted into or on the frame assembly 12, such as theelectric door operator 52, through a high-voltage supply wire 45, shownin FIG. 3 .

The AC/DC converter 40 is electrically connected to the door 14 throughan electric power transfer device. According to the present invention, alow voltage supplies electrical wire(s) 44 runs from the low voltageAC/DC converter 40 to the electric power transfer device, such as one ofthe hinges 16 ₁, 16 ₂, 16 ₃. Specifically, the low voltage supplyelectrical wire 44 runs to and through the hinge 161 disposed usually inthe middle of the first jamb member 12 ₁ of the door frame 12 andprovides an electric powered (or electric transfer) hinge that conductsthe low voltage electrical power therethrough. The low voltage supplyelectrical wire(s) 44 transfers electrical power across or through theelectric powered hinge 16 ₁, which may be a McKinney Assa Abloy ElectricTransfer Hinge with ElectroLynx® or the like. Other exemplary electricalhinges are disclosed in U.S. Pat. Nos. 3,860,312, 3,857,625, 3,842,386,3,838,234, 3,355,695, 1,744,040, 615,209, 612,192 and US publishedpatent application No. 2017/0306674, 2014/0213073, 2014/0001880,2012/0073 083, the complete disclosures of which are incorporated hereinby reference.

The supply electrical wire(s) 44 is connected to the powered hinge 16 ₁on the hinge side 14H of the door 14 and preferably runs through ahorizontal supply channel to a DC power distribution system 48, such asprovided by an electrical distribution block, located in or adjacent toa vertical supply passage on the latch side 14L of the door 14. The DCpower distribution system 48 transmits low voltage DC power, data,electric signals, or a combination thereof. According to the firstexemplary embodiment, the DC power distribution system 48 is disposed ina pocket (or slot) 49 machined or otherwise formed into the inner stile22 ₃ of the second stile 22 ₂ of the inner door frame 20. Electric powercan be delivered from the DC power distribution system 48 to theelectric devices 36, such as devices 36 ₁ and 36 ₂ that are mounted tothe door 14, specifically into the latch stile 22 ₂.

Low-voltage DC electrical power is delivered from the power distributionsystem 48 to the electric powered door latch 30 and the electric devices36 ₁-36 ₃ that are mounted to the door 14. Moreover, the low-voltage DCelectrical power is delivered from the low-voltage AC/DC converter 40directly to the low-voltage electric device 36 ₄ that is mounted to theframe assembly 12 by the low-voltage supply wire 44 so as to bypass theDC power distribution system 48, as shown in FIG. 3 .

A plurality of connecting electrical wires 54 extend through thevertical supply passage 25 and electrically connect the DC powerdistribution system 48 to the electric powered door latch 30, theelectric powered door lock 34, and the electric powered devices 36 ₁-36₄, thus electrically connecting the electric powered door latch 30, theelectric powered door lock 34, and the electric devices 36 ₁-36 ₄ to thelow voltage AC/DC converter 40.

Alternatively, electrical connectors may be pre-mounted in the verticalsupply passage 25 at desired locations, so that the electric devices 36may simply be inserted and plugged into electrical connectors. Astandard flange size and plug location relative to location of a flangeof the electric devices 36 may be set so that suppliers may supplyelectric devices that are easily plugged into the door 14. The supplyelectrical wire(s) 44 and the plurality of the connecting electricalwires 54 together define an electrical wire system, which is disposedwithin the door 14 and is electrically connected to the AC/DC converter40 and to the DC electric device 30, 34 and 36.

In the event the electric devices 36 have connectors for connection tothe DC power distribution system 48, the connectors may have a flange orsome other unique identifier to mate with a complementary receptacle inorder to identify or designate the connector and thus its electricdevice 36 as approved for use with the door system 10. Alternatively,the electric devices 36 may have an electronic signature or some otheridentifier to assure that the electric device 36 is approved forinstallation. A software handshake is another verification mechanismthat may be utilized for electric devices 36. While plug connectors maybe utilized to connect the electric devices 36, other forms ofelectrical connectors may be used while assuring transfer of power, dataand operating signals.

The door 14 according to the first exemplary embodiment allows easyintegration of the electric devices 36, while maintaining structural,insulation, noise attenuation, and aesthetic requirements of door 14.Moreover, according to the first exemplary embodiment, slots (oropenings) 56, such as of up to 1″ in width, may be machined into thelatch stile 22 ₂ to allow mounting of various electric devices, as bestshown in FIG. 3 . While we show slots 56 opening onto stile 22 ₂, theslots 56 may open on the door facings 23, 24. The slots 56 open into thevertical supply passage 25. The connecting electrical wires 54 may berun to the DC power distribution system 48 or connectors may bepre-mounted to the inner stile 22 ₃ in the vertical supply passage 25,thus allowing the electric devices 36 to be plugged-in so that electricpower can be supplied for use and functioning of the electric devices36. Providing electric power to the door system 10 and the door 14minimizes the need for changing batteries, thus assuring more reliableoperation and functioning of the electric devices 36. Because the ACpower is within the wall or the frame 12, only DC power is supplied todoor 14 to minimize the possibility of an unintended electric shock.

As illustrated in FIG. 3 , the door system 10 further includes alow-voltage back-up battery (or battery pack) 50 mounted to the door 14,such as to the inner door frame 20. The back-up battery 50 may slideinto a pocket formed one of the stiles (e.g., the second stile 22 ₂) ofthe inner door frame 20. The battery 50 is electrically connected to theDC power distribution system 48. The battery 50 has a low nominalvoltage (such as 5 volts (V), 24 volts or other required voltage). Thenominal voltage of the battery 50 corresponds to an output voltage ofthe low voltage AC/DC converter 40. The door system 10 is powered andoperated by the electrical power of the battery 50 as a secondaryback-up electrical power source for the powered door latch 30 and theelectric devices 36 ₁-36 ₄. Preferably, the battery 50 is also connectedto the DC power distribution system 48 for back-up as well as to provideadditional amperage for momentary, high amperage devices such as thepowered door latch 30.

Preferably, the battery 50 is a rechargeable battery that is chargedfrom the DC power distribution system 48. Thus, in the door system 10,the reliance on batteries as a primary power source is less important,or if a battery option is used, a larger consolidated battery 50 may bestored in the door 14 and not in each of the electric devices.

As illustrated in FIG. 3 , the door 14 of the door system 10 alsoincludes a central electronic control unit (ECU) (or power managementcontroller) 58 configured and programmed to receive input from one ormore sensors, such as a motion sensor (or motion detector) 62 (inwireless or wired communication with central ECU 58), a proximitysensor, ambient light sensor, door state sensor, and a smoke detector.The ECU 58 sends commands to the electric devices 36 ₁-36 ₄, theelectric powered door latch 30, the electric power door lock 34, andalso to the homeowner. The ECU 58 preferably is an electronic controllerhaving firmware and/or associated software suitable for assuringoperation of the ECU and its interaction with the electric devices 36and associated sensors, if any. ECU 58 is in electrical communicationwith the various electric devices 36, receives data from the connecteddevices, and supplies operating signals to them.

The door 14 can be constructed with multiple prewired receptacles whereelectric devices and/or the battery can simply be plugged into an edgeof the door 14 and a cover plate installed to enclose the electricdevices. A housing for each of the receptacles can be molded from aflame retarded polymer that meets the necessary UL and regulatoryrequirements for housing electrical devices. The housing for each of thereceptacles may be inserted into one of the slots 56 machined orotherwise formed into the latch stile 22 ₂ of the door 14. Ventilationpreferably is provided in the cover plate to aid in heat transfer, or aconduit may be connected to the receptacles and vent air out a top ofthe door 14. Preferably, the battery 50, the central ECU 58, thesensors, the electric powered door latch 30, the electric power doorlock 34 and/or at least some of the electric devices are mounted intothe edge of the latch side 14L of the door 14 in the prewiredreceptacles for integration, modularization, security, andserviceability. Alternatively, the power management controller 58 may bemounted to the door frame 12 or disposed outside the door assembly 11,such as at the wall adjacent the door frame 12.

The central ECU 58 controls the electric powered door latch 30, theelectric power door lock 34 and the electric devices 36 ₁-36 ₄.Accordingly, the central ECU 58 may be in communication with theelectric powered door latch 30, the electric power door lock 34 and theelectric devices 36 ₁-36 ₄ through a data bus, via ethernet, CAN, orserial communication, which includes data links 601, 602, 603, 604 and60L. As best shown in FIG. 3 , the data link 604 extends through thepowered hinge 16 i. Alternatively, the central ECU 58 may be incommunication with the electric powered door latch 30, the electricpower door lock 34 and the electric devices 36 ₁-36 ₄ through one of thefollowing wireless technologies: Bluetooth®, NFC, Zigbee, Zwave, Wi-Fi,LAN, mobile telecommunications technology (3G, 4G or 5G), etc.

The central ECU 58 also controls the electric powered door latch 30. Theelectric powered door latch 30 includes an electric latch operator,which may be used to lock the door 14 based upon input signals receivedfrom the central ECU 58. The central ECU 58 may allow the electricpowered door latch 30 to be unlatched remotely, such as through asmartphone app, without the intervention of a person wishing to enterthe building. To unlatch the door 14, the electric latch operator movesthe central latch bolt 33 of the electric powered door latch 30 by anelectric motor associated with the electric latch operator of theelectric powered door latch 30 into the retracted position. Thus, thepower management controller 58 with the data links 60 ₁, 60 ₂, 60 ₃, 60₄ and 60L defines a power management system for the door system 10.

The power management controller 58 may be adapted and configured forcommunication with a remotely located controller, such as availablethrough a smartphone app, for operating at least one of the DC electricdevices 30, 34 and 36 in response to a command from the remotely locatedcontroller.

The door system 10 can be configured by a user to enable both local andcloud integration and data storage. Specific examples where a user canconfigure setting of the door system 10 include:

-   -   using motion, ambient light, or door state sensors to turn on        LED lighting, such as the threshold LED light 36 ₃ or the        hallway illumination light 36 ₄;    -   using motion, ambient light, or door state sensors to control        the electric powered door latch 30 and/or the electric power        door lock 34;    -   using connected door lock sensors and video sensors to detect a        user to unlock the door 14;    -   using door state sensor changes to activate home automation        sequences, such as turning on interior lighting or for an        announcement of occupancy; and    -   using motion or ambient light sensors as a trigger for a smart        glass of the door 14 to turn opaque for privacy and solar light        management.

Those skilled in the art will recognize that the sensors communicatingwith the ECU 58 may be located on the building, the door frame 12 and/orthe door 14 provided they are in communication with the ECU 58.

Also, the ECU 58 may notify a user that securing the door latch 30 isnot possible due to the door 14 being ajar or open. For this purpose,the door assembly 10 may have a door state sensor (or door sensor) 64communicating with the central ECU 58 via a wired or wirelessconnection, as best shown in FIG. 3 . The door state sensor 64 monitorsif the door 14 is ajar or closed (i.e., if the door 14 is properlyaligned with the frame assembly 12) prior to activating the electricpowered door latch 30. A signal from the door state sensor 64 indicatingthat the door 14 is ajar is directed to the ECU 58 that, in turn,activates the electric door operator 52 to properly close the door 14.Operation of electric powered latch 30 when the door 14 is not properlyclosed may damage the latch 30. Similarly, one or more sensors may beprovided to not only turn-on the LED light(s) but allow the electricpowered door lock to lock after determining that the individual haspassed through the door 14 and the door 14 is closed, to communicatewith a smartphone app to allow the owner to monitor activity around thedoor 14, to determine the status of the door 14, whether open or closed,and to determine whether someone is approaching the door 14.

Moreover, the door system 10 comprises the powered door closer (orelectric power door operator) 52 mounted to the frame assembly 12 andoperated by high voltage AC electrical power at 120 volts, and the doorstate sensor 64 (in wireless or wired communication with the central ECU58) configured to determine the state of the door 14 (open or closed).Alternatively, the electric door operator 52 may also operate atlow-voltage DC electrical power. According to the present invention, theAC powered door closer 52 and the door state sensor 64, such as aHall-effect sensor, interact to close the door 14 when the door statesensor 64 determines that the door 14 is open. It should be understoodthat capabilities of the door state sensor 64 may contemplate various“states” of the door or the door devices, i.e., locked/unlocked,open/closed, lights on/off, etc. Other sensors in the system can also beused to sense problems with the DC or AC electric devices themselves,for example, no WiFi or Bluetooth signal, too much power draw, notenough power draw, too hot, too cold, (for a back-up battery 50, forexample), etc. The sensors 62, 64 and other sensors communicate signalsto ECU 58, which then determines the action to take in response to thesignals, and issues a command to the appropriate electric device 36. Inthis way, the door state sensor 64 may send a signal to ECU 58 that thedoor 14 is open, and the ECU 58 may issue a command to door closer 52 tooperate to close the door 14. The door open signal may be communicatedby the door state sensor 64, such as on a periodic basis, on a timedbasis, and may be in response to an inquiry, such as from the ownerthrough use of a smartphone app.

The ECU 58 may work both locally amongst the electric devices 36, aswell as be supplemented by cloud integration for more advanced controlwhile the user is away from the home controller. In the door system 10,a user may access the power system of the door system 10 via a wirelessconnection or a PC or mobile device, such as through a smartphone app,to set up, configure and manage one or more powered electric devices 36.Moreover, a user may access data and have user settable options for bothaddition of electric devices as well as the diagnostic health of theattached electric devices 36 and/or the battery 50 that would be a moreefficient method to service issues occurred with the electric devices 36and the battery 50. The smartphone app may be used to monitor activityaround the door 14, to activate the electric powered door 30 lock tolock and unlock, and to determine the status of the door 14, whetheropen or shut.

Therefore, a pre-wired door assembly 10 according to the presentinvention includes a power system and a door power management system andhas the ability to provide both high-voltage and low-voltage electricalpower for operation of a plurality of electric devices and a powermanagement controller integrated into the door assembly 10. For theplurality of electric devices integrated in the door assembly 10, therange of watts required, considering amperes and volts specificallyrequired by each of the electric devices and use, varies widely from LEDlighting at the low end, 2.9 watts per foot at 5 volts, toelectromechanical door systems requiring extremely high amp output tomove a door, typically over 500 watts at 120 (or 115) volts. Thus, thepresent invention provides two or more power supply options that bettermatch power needs of electric devices to allow for easier integrationand power management given the diversity of power requirements.

FIG. 4 illustrates a door system, generally labeled with the referencenumeral 110, according to a second exemplary embodiment of the presentinvention. Components which function in the same ways as in the firstexemplary embodiment of the present invention depicted in FIGS. 1-3 arelabeled with the same reference characters. Components, which areconstructed similar to or function in the same way as in the firstexemplary embodiment are designated by the same reference numerals towhich 100 has been added, sometimes without being described in detailsince similarities between the corresponding parts in the twoembodiments will be readily perceived by the reader.

As illustrated in FIG. 4 , the door system 110 comprises a plurality ofelectric devices 36 integrated into a door assembly 111. Specifically,the electric devices that may be mounted to the door system 110 include,but are not limited to, an electric powered door latch 30, an electricpowered door lock 34, a video doorbell 36 ₁, a digital camera 36 ₂, athreshold LED light 36 ₃ and a hallway illumination light with a motiondetector 36 ₄, as best illustrated in FIG. 4 . The electric powered doorlatch 30 and the electric powered door lock 34 are mounted to the innerdoor frame 20 of the door 14, while the video doorbell 36 ₁, the digitalcamera 36 ₂ and the threshold LED light 36 ₃ may be mounted to the doorframe 12 or to the door 14 of the door system 110. The threshold LEDlight 36 ₃ may illuminate when an authorized person is recognized orwhen a person approaches the door 14. It should be understood that thedoor 14 of the door system 110 may include other electric devices, asthere are a number of electric devices marketed to be mounted to doorsand provide functions such as electronic access control, door statefeedback, entry camera and communication, etc. Moreover, the electricdevices 36 ₁-36 ₄ are typically low-voltage DC electric devices operatedby low voltage DC electrical power (such as 5 volts (V), 24 volts orother required voltage).

The AC/DC converter 40 is electrically connected to the door 14 throughan electric power transfer device 18. According to the second embodimentof the present invention, a low voltage supply electrical wire(s) 44runs from the low voltage AC/DC converter 40 to the electric powertransfer device 18. The electric power transfer device 18 is disposedoutside any of the hinges 16 ₁, 16 ₂, 16 ₃ and is configured to transferlow voltage electrical power from the door frame 12 to the pivotabledoor 14. The low voltage supply electrical wire(s) 44 passes from thelow voltage AC/DC converter 40 in the first jamb member 12 ₁ of the doorframe 12 to the pivotable door 14 bypassing any of the door hinges 16 ₁,16 ₂, 16 ₃. Exemplary electric power transfer devices are disclosed inU.S. Pat. Nos. 3,848,361, 4,445,299, 6,350,956, 6,812,407, 8,448,382,8,505,169 and 9,825,443, the complete disclosures of which areincorporated herein by reference. Low voltage DC power is supplied todoor 14 in order to minimize the possibility of electrical shock to auser. Further, the electric devices 36 typically are battery operatedand thus operate on DC current at relatively low voltages, typically 5 VDC.

FIG. 5 illustrates a door system, generally labeled with the referencenumeral 210, according to a third exemplary embodiment of the presentinvention. Components which function in the same ways as in the firstexemplary embodiment of the present invention depicted in FIGS. 1-3 arelabeled with the same reference characters. Components which areconstructed similar to or function in the same way as in the firstexemplary embodiment are designated by the same reference numerals towhich 200 has been added, sometimes without being described in detailsince similarities between the corresponding parts in the twoembodiments will be readily perceived by the reader.

As illustrated in FIG. 5 , the door system 210 comprises a plurality ofDC electric devices 36 integrated into the door system 210. The electricdevices that may be mounted to the door system 210 include, but are notlimited to, an electric powered door latch 30, an electric powered doorlock 34, a video doorbell 36 ₁, a digital camera 36 ₂, a threshold LEDlight 36 ₃ and a hallway illumination LED 36 ₄ with an integrated motiondetector 36 ₄ provided with a motion sensor (or motion detector) or aproximity sensor mounted to the frame assembly 12, as best illustratedin FIG. 5 . The threshold LED light 36 ₃ illuminates when a personapproaches door 14. Some of the DC electric devices, such as the videodoorbell 36 ₁, the digital camera 36 ₂, the threshold LED light 36 ₃,may be mounted to the door frame 12 or to the door 214.

It should be understood that the door 214 of the door system 210 mayinclude other electric devices, as there are a number of electricdevices marketed to be mounted to doors and provide functions such aselectronic access control, door state feedback, entry camera andcommunication, etc. Moreover, the electric devices 30, 34, 36 ₁-36 ₄typically are low-voltage DC electric devices operated by low voltage DCelectrical power (such as 5 volts (V), 24 volts or other requiredvoltage).

The AC/DC converter 40 is electrically connected to the door 214 by aplurality of low voltage connecting electrical wires 254 run from thelow voltage AC/DC converter 40 to the electric power transfer device,such as one of the hinges 16 ₁, 16 ₂, 16 ₃. The connecting electricalwires 254 together define an electrical wire system. According to thethird exemplary embodiment, the electrical wire system is in the form ofa wire harness 244 electrically connected to the AC/DC converter 40 tothe DC electric devices 30, 34 and 36, and to ECU 58.

The central ECU 58 controls the electric devices, including the electricpowered door latch 30 and the electric devices 36 ₁-36 ₄. Accordingly,the central ECU 58 is in communication with the electric powered doorlatch 30, the electric power door lock 34 and the electric devices 36₁-36 ₄ through CAN, ETHERNET, serial communication including data and/orsignal links 260 ₁, 260 ₂, 260 ₃, 260 ₄ and 260L. As best shown in FIG.5 , the data links 2604 and 260L extend through the wire harness 244.Preferably, the data links are in the form of a data bus that providestransportation for data and/or control signals going both ways.Alternatively, the central ECU 58 is in communication with the electricpowered door latch 30, the electric power door lock 34 and the electricdevices 36 ₁-36 ₄ through one of the following wireless technologies:Bluetooth®, zigbee, zwave, nfc, Wi-Fi, LAN, mobile telecommunicationstechnology (3G, 4G or 5G), etc.

FIG. 6 illustrates a door system, generally labeled with the referencenumeral 310, according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention.Components which function in the same ways as in the first exemplaryembodiment of the present invention depicted in FIG. 5 are labeled withthe same reference characters. Components, which are constructed similarto or function in the same way as in the first exemplary embodiment aredesignated by the same reference numerals to which 300 has been added,sometimes without being described in detail since similarities betweenthe corresponding parts in the two embodiments will be readily perceivedby the reader.

As illustrated in FIG. 6 , the door system 310 comprises a plurality ofDC electric devices 36 integrated into the door system 310. The electricdevices that may be mounted to the door system 310 include, but are notlimited to, an electric powered door latch 30, an electric powered doorlock 34, a video doorbell 36 ₁, a digital camera 36 ₄, a threshold LEDlight 36 ₃ and a hallway illumination light with a motion detector 36 ₄provided with a motion sensor (or motion detector) or a proximity sensormounted to the frame assembly 12, as best illustrated in FIG. 6 . Thethreshold LED light 36 ₃ illuminates when a person approaches door someof the DC electric devices, such as the video doorbell 36 ₁, the digitalcamera 36 ₂, the threshold LED light 36 ₃, may be mounted to the doorframe 12 or to the door 314.

As illustrated in FIG. 6 , the low voltage AC/DC converter 40 isdisposed outside the door assembly 311, specifically outside the doorframe 12. Moreover, the AC/DC converter 40 is electrically connected tothe DC electric devices 30, 34 and 36 by a wire harness 244.

FIGS. 7 and 8 illustrate a door system, generally labeled with thereference numeral 410, according to a fifth exemplary embodiment of thepresent invention. Components, which function in the same ways as in thethird exemplary embodiment of the present invention depicted in FIG. 5are labeled with the same reference characters. Components, which areconstructed similar to or function in the same way as in the fifthexemplary embodiment are designated by the same reference numerals or bythe reference numerals to which 200 has been added, sometimes withoutbeing described in detail since similarities between the correspondingparts in the two embodiments will be readily perceived by the reader.

As illustrated in FIGS. 7 and 8 , the door system 410 comprises asubstantially rectangular door frame 12 and a door 414 pivotallyattached thereto by at least one hinge 16 ₁, such as “butt hinge” thatincludes two leaves. Preferably, the door system 410 comprises threehinges 16 ₁, 16 ₂, 16 ₃ used to pivotally attach the door 414 to thedoor frame 12. The door system 410 further comprises a plurality of DCelectric devices (components) integrated into the door system 410. TheDC electric devices are mounted to the door 414 or to the door frame 12of the door system 410 to provide functions, such as electronic accesscontrol, door state feedback, entry camera and audio/videocommunication, etc. Specifically, the DC electric devices that aremounted to the door 414 of the door system 410 include, but are notlimited to, a keypad electronic door lock 434 with a deadbolt 435, whilethe DC electric devices that are mounted to the door frame 12 or evenadjacent to the frame 12 on a wall of the building include, but are notlimited to, a threshold illumination light 4364, a door lockillumination light 36 s, and a doorknob illumination light 366 forilluminating a doorknob (or handle) 432 of a manual or electric powereddoor latch 430. While the lights 436 ₄, 36 ₅, and 36 ₆ are shown mountedto the exterior of frame 12, they may be mounted in pockets formed intothe frame 12 in order to be recessed and not easily accessible, such asto an intruder.

Further, the lock pad 434 may be remote from door knob 432 or they maybe integrated into a single unit.

As illustrated in FIG. 8 , the door system 410 further comprises a lowvoltage (such as 5 volts (V), 12 volts, 24 volts or other requiredvoltage) AC/DC converter 40 mounted to the door frame 12. Alternatively,the low voltage AC/DC converter 40 may be disposed outside the doorassembly 411, such as at the wall adjacent the frame 12. According tothe present invention, as best illustrated in FIG. 8 , the low voltageAC/DC converter 40 is located in a pocket (or slot) 41 machined orotherwise formed into the first jamb member 121 of the door frame 12 sothat the low voltage AC/DC converter 40 is accessible from outside ofthe first jamb member 121 and removably mounted in the pocket 41 toallow maintenance, for example. The low voltage AC/DC converter 40 iselectrically connected by high voltage electrical cable(s) 643 to a 115(or 120) V AC power unit which may be installed during home constructionand located outside the door system 410.

Further as best shown in FIG. 8 , the AC/DC converter 40 is electricallyconnected to a DC power distribution system 448 by an electric powertransfer device including an armored cable 444 provided to transmit lowvoltage DC power, data, electric signals, or a combination thereof.Preferably the pockets in which the AC/DC converter 40 and thedistribution system 448 are positioned are sized sufficiently to allowthe armored cable 444 to be retained between them when the door 14 isclosed and will not impede closing of door 414.

A door assembly according to the present invention includes a powersystem that has the ability to provide both high-voltage and low-voltageelectrical power for operation of a plurality of electric devicesintegrated into the door assembly of the present invention. For theplurality of the electric devices integrated into the door assembly ofthe present invention, the range of watts required, considering amperesand volts specifically required by each of the electric devices and use,varies widely from LED lighting at the low end, 2.9 watts per foot at 5volts, to electromechanical door systems requiring high amp output tomove a door, typically over 500 watts at 120 volts. Thus, the presentinvention provides two or more power supply options that better matchpower needs of electric devices to allow for easier integration andpower management given the diversity of power requirements.

In the door systems 10, 110, 210, 310 and 410 a user may access thepower system of the door systems 10, 110, 210, 310 and 410 via wirelessconnection and a PC or mobile device, such as through a smartphone app,to set up, configure and manage one or more powered connected electricdevices 36. The smartphone app may be used to monitor activity aroundthe door, to activate the electric powered door lock 34 to lock andunlock, and to determine the status of the door, whether open or shut.Moreover, a user may access data and have user settable options for bothaddition of electric devices as well as the diagnostic health of theattached electric devices and/or the battery that would be a moreefficient method to service issues with the electric devices and thebattery.

By providing a convenient way to integrate the electric devices(hardware) into the door assembly with power available, manufacturers ofthe electric devices can simplify the designs and provide consumers withcleaner designs that are hidden and integrated into the door and do notrequire replacement of batteries. Furthermore, the invention enablesintegration of the electric devices into the door assembly in astandardized way that allows convenient serviceability of the electricdevices.

The electric devices are integrated into the pre-wired door assemblyaccording to the present invention so that the door maintains structuralintegrity, insulation performance, and is free of distortion or otheraesthetic defects.

The foregoing description of the exemplary embodiments of the presentinvention has been presented for the purpose of illustration inaccordance with the provisions of the Patent Statutes. It is notintended to be exhaustive or to limit the invention to the precise formsdisclosed. Obvious modifications or variations are possible in light ofthe above teachings.

The embodiments disclosed hereinabove were chosen in order to bestillustrate the principles of the present invention and its practicalapplication to thereby enable those of ordinary skill in the art to bestutilize the invention in various embodiments and with variousmodifications as are suited to the particular use contemplated, as longas the principles described herein are followed. Thus, changes can bemade in the above-described invention without departing from the intentand scope thereof. It is also intended that the scope of the presentinvention be defined by the claims appended thereto.

What is claimed is:
 1. A door system, comprising: a door frame adaptedto be mounted within an opening; a door pivotally attached to the doorframe; an AC/DC converter operably associated with the door frame andconfigured to be electrically connected to an AC power unit disposedoutside the door system; a DC electric device mounted to the door andelectrically connected to the AC/DC converter; at least one sensormounted to the door frame or the door; and a power management controllerconfigured to receive an input from the at least one sensor and send acommand or power to the DC electric device.
 2. The door system of claim1, wherein the AC/DC converter is mounted to the door frame.
 3. The doorsystem of claim 2, wherein the at least one sensor is mounted to thedoor and movable therewith.
 4. The door system of claim 1, furthercomprising a battery, the battery operably associated with the powermanagement controller and the DC electric device in order to providepower thereto.
 5. The door system of claim 4, wherein a plurality of DCelectric devices are mounted to the door or door frame, each of the DCelectric devices in electrical communication with the power managementcontroller.
 6. The door system of claim 5, comprising a plurality ofsensors, wherein each of the sensors is mounted to the door or the doorframe, and wherein each of the sensors is in communication with thepower management controller.
 7. The door system of claim 6, wherein atleast one of the sensors is in wireless communication with the powermanagement controller.
 8. The door system of claim 6, wherein at leastone of the sensors is in wired communication with the power managementcontroller.
 9. The door system of claim 5, wherein the DC electricdevices are one of a video camera, a door lock, a LED, an illuminatedkey hole, and a door state sensor.
 10. The door system of claim 4,wherein the battery is a rechargeable battery and the power managementcontroller controls charging of the battery.
 11. A door assembly,comprising: a door frame adapted to be mounted within an opening; a doorpivotally attached to the door frame; an AC/DC converter mounted to thedoor frame and configured to be electrically connected to an AC powerunit; a DC power distribution system mounted to the door or door frameand electrically connected to the AC/DC converter; a plurality oflow-voltage DC electric devices mounted to the door or door frame andelectrically connected to the AC/DC converter through the DC powerdistribution system; and a power management controller operablyassociated with the DC electric devices and configured for controllingoperation thereof.
 12. The door assembly of claim 11, wherein the AC/DCconverter is mounted to the door frame.
 13. The door assembly of claim12, wherein a power transfer device is connected to the AC/DC converterand adapted to be connected to the AC power unit.
 14. The door assemblyof claim 13, wherein the DC electric devices are selected from the groupconsisting of a video camera, a door lock, a LED, an illuminated keyhole, and a door state sensor.
 15. The door assembly of claim 11,further comprising a battery, the battery electrically connected to thepower management controller for providing electric power thereto. 16.The door assembly of claim 15, wherein the battery is a rechargeablebattery, and wherein the power management controller is configured tocharge the battery.
 17. The door assembly of claim 14, wherein at leasta first sensor is adapted for operable association with the door and incommunication with the power management controller, and wherein thepower management controller is configured for operating at least one ofthe DC electric devices in response to a signal received from thesensor.
 18. An entryway, comprising: a door frame mounted within anopening; a door pivotally attached to the door frame; an AC power supplyoperably associated with the door frame; an AC/DC converter operablyassociated with the door frame and electrically connected to the ACpower supply operably associated with the door; a DC power distributionsystem mounted to the door or door frame and electrically connected tothe AC/DC converter; a plurality of sensors operably associated with theentryway; a plurality of DC electric devices mounted to the door or doorframe and electrically connected to the DC power distribution system;and a power management controller operably associated with the DCelectric devices and with the sensors, and configured for controlling atleast one of the DC electric devices in response to the sensors.
 19. Theentryway of claim 18, wherein a power transfer device connects the ACpower supply unit to the AC/DC converter.
 20. The entryway of claim 19,wherein the AC/DC converter is configured to reduce and convert thevoltage of the electric power received from the AC power supply.
 21. Theentryway of claim 20, further comprising a battery mounted to the doorand electrically connected to the power management controller forproviding electric power thereto.
 22. The entryway of claim 19, whereinthe power management controller is configured to provide electric powerto the DC electric devices, to receive data from the sensors and the DCelectric devices, and/or to provide control signals to the DC electricdevices.
 23. The entryway of claim 22, wherein at least one of thesensors is in wireless communication with the power managementcontroller.
 24. The entryway of claim 18, further comprising anAC-powered device operably associated with the door frame and connectedto the door, wherein the AC-powered device is electrically connected tothe AC power supply.
 25. The entryway of claim 24, wherein theAC-powered device is mounted to the door frame, and wherein theAC-powered device is adapted to close the door in response to a signalfrom the power management controller.
 26. The entryway of claim 23,wherein the DC electric devices include at least one of a video camera,a door lock, a LED, an illuminated keyhole, and a door state sensor. 27.The entryway of claim 23, wherein at least one of the sensors is mountedto the door and one of the sensors is mounted to the door frame.
 28. Theentryway of claim 27, wherein the power management controller is adaptedand configured for communication with a remotely located controller foroperating at least one of the DC electric devices in response to acommand from the remotely located controller.
 29. A method of operatingan entryway, comprising the steps of: providing a door frame within anopening; positioning a source of AC power proximate the door frame;converting the AC power to DC power by rectifying and reducing thevoltage of the AC power, and supplying low-voltage DC power to the doorpositioning at least one DC electric device on the door; providing apower management controller electrically connected to the AC/DCconverter and operably associated with the DC electric devices and withthe sensors for controlling supply of power thereto; receiving data atthe power management controller from at least one of the sensors or theelectric device; transmitting operating signals or DC power to DCelectric devices from the power management controller in response to thesensors; and operating the DC electric devices in response to the outputfrom the power management controller.